CERTIFICATE OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN HEALTHCARE PRACTICE (NURSING HOME PATHWAY)

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to this course, is evidence that the learner is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in place allocation.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July 2024.

• Applicants must have obtained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A-Levels, National Awards, Access or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.
• Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).
• Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Policy.
• Applicants will be required to pass an Access NI Check.
• Applicants must demonstrate their ability to study at academic level 4 and the potential to progress to level 5.
• Applicants will be required to attend a 'Selection Day' which will consist of an information session, scenario-based interviews and an individual interview. Selection will then be made on the student's suitability and a waiting list will be compiled.
• Applicants will be asked to complete a Health Declaration.

* Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning, does not cover the GCSE Maths and English requirements.

Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

Student will complete two modules of study.

Module K102: Introducing Health & Social Care (60 academic credits)

This is an academic unit where you will be taught essential knowledge and theory of health and social care. It is delivered face-to-face at Lurgan campus and consists of 6 blocks of learning topics that include:

• Roles and settings in HSC
• Human development across the life course
• Safeguarding
• Sociology
• Innovative practices

Module K104: Introduction to Healthcare Practice (60 academic credits)

This is a taught module that equips you for your practice development on placement. In this module you will be introduced to the essential aspects of practice and help you develop the skills essential for safe and effective care. Topic of study include:

• Becoming a healthcare student in practice
• Being a professional
• Person and family-centred care
• Communication skills
• Numeracy skills and observation of medicines management
• Quality and safety of care
• Infection prevention and management
• Assessment skills and care planning
• Bladder and bowel health
• Mobility
• Nutrition and hydration
• Hygiene, skin integrity and wound care
• Acute and emergency care
• Promoting health
• Supporting skills

In addition to these modules, you will complete 770 hours of practice. You will be allocated a Placement Assessor within your placement who will be a registered nurse who has completed further training in supporting students and will be on shift with you approximately 50% of the time.

In addition, SRC will allocate a Practice Tutor who will work with you on your practice development and visit you on placement. Much of this evidence is captured through the use of the Northern Ireland Practice Assessment Document (NIPAD) adapted for Healthcare Practice students.

Assessment methods include:

• Teacher marked assessments, to include essay style questions and presentations
• End of module assessments
• Assessed simulation exercises and professional discussions
• Observation of practice
• Medicines calculation exam
• Completion of the Northern Ireland Practice Assessment Document (NIPAD)

Where the exam/awarding body fee is listed as TBC in the full fee breakdown, the information has not yet been released by our partner awarding bodies for 24/25. This fee will be updated as soon as it becomes available.

Fees displayed for each course represent fees to be charged for year 1 of each programme. Please note that fees may increase in year 2 or 3 of the course. Read more in our Fees Policy at https://www.src.ac.uk/about-us...

Students will choose which nursing home partner to apply to and we hope there will be availability in a location convenient for them. The student will be responsible for their own travel costs.

Students will be provided with a SRC healthcare uniform and identity badge which must be worn when undertaking supernumerary hours on placement. At other times, the student should wear the uniform required by their employer. Students will be responsible for purchasing their own trousers and shoes to meet the required uniform policy.

While this course is delivered as a standalone qualification, it also provides the equivalence of Stage 1 of the Open University Nursing Degree and may allow progression to Stage 2 of the OU Nursing Degree in the four areas of nursing practice (subject to successful application).

Some universities may consider exemption of modules on the basis of your achievement on this course.

In addition, this course will allow you to apply for other undergraduate courses that are healthcare related including nursing at a range of universities. Some universities may consider exemption of modules based on your achievement on this course.

Upon successful completion of the Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice, students will be equipped with the foundational knowledge and skills required for positions in healthcare. Graduates may find employment as senior care workers, team leaders, nursing assistants and other band 3 opportunities.